Celebrate the Founding of the Nation’s Oldest City
Each September, St. Augustine commemorates its founding with Founder's Day, an annual celebration honoring the arrival of Spanish Admiral Pedro Menéndez de Avilés on September 8, 1565. Recognized as the oldest continuously occupied European-established city in the United States, St. Augustine marks this historic milestone with living history demonstrations, reenactments, commemorative ceremonies, and family-friendly activities at two of the city's most significant historic sites.
Whether you're a history enthusiast, planning a weekend getaway, or looking for a unique cultural event, Founder's Day offers an unforgettable opportunity to experience the story of America's oldest city where it all began.
Founder's Day commemorates the founding of St. Augustine on September 8, 1565, when Spanish explorer and Admiral Pedro Menéndez de Avilés established the settlement on Florida's northeast coast. His arrival marked the beginning of the first permanent European settlement in what is now the continental United States.
The celebration also recognizes several historic firsts associated with that day, including the first Catholic Mass in what is now the United States and the shared meal between the Spanish settlers and the native Timucua people—an event many historians recognize as America's First Thanksgiving.
Today, visitors can experience these moments through authentic historical reenactments presented by local historians and living history organizations.
Throughout the day, visitors can enjoy a variety of educational programs and historical demonstrations, including:
Every year offers a slightly different schedule, but the celebration remains focused on preserving and sharing the rich history of St. Augustine.
Many Founder's Day ceremonies begin at Mission Nombre de Dios, one of St. Augustine's most important historic and religious landmarks. Visitors can explore the mission grounds, the Great Cross overlooking Matanzas Bay, the Rustic Altar, and the National Shrine of Our Lady of La Leche.
The celebration continues at the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park, where visitors can watch the reenactment of Pedro Menéndez's landing, experience military demonstrations, and witness the recreation of America's First Thanksgiving.
Together, these two historic sites tell the story of St. Augustine's founding where it actually happened more than 460 years ago.
Long before Jamestown was founded in 1607 or the Pilgrims arrived at Plymouth in 1620, St. Augustine was already a thriving Spanish settlement.
Founded in 1565, the city has remained continuously occupied for more than four and a half centuries, earning its place as the nation's oldest city. Founder's Day celebrates this remarkable history while honoring the cultures that shaped St. Augustine, including Spanish colonists, the Timucua people, and generations of residents who have preserved the city's unique heritage.
For visitors, it's one of the most authentic ways to experience living history in Florida.
Most visitors spend between two and four hours enjoying Founder's Day activities, although history enthusiasts may wish to spend the entire day exploring the event and nearby historic attractions.
Parking is available throughout the Uptown and Historic Downtown areas of St. Augustine. Because attendance is highest during special ceremonies, arriving early is recommended.
Visitors may also take advantage of the city's parking garage, rideshare services, or Old Town Trolley transportation to avoid searching for parking during peak times.
September in Florida is typically warm, so lightweight clothing is recommended.
Absolutely. Children enjoy watching the soldiers, muskets, cannon demonstrations, and historical reenactors, while adults appreciate the opportunity to experience one of the country's most significant historical anniversaries.
The event combines education with entertainment, making it a great outing for families.
Castillo de San Marcos National Monument1 South Castillo Dr.
St. Augustine, Florida 32084
National Shrine of Our Lady of La Leche at Mission Nombre de Dios101 San Marco Avenue,
St. Augustine, Florida 32084
Ponce de Leon's Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park11 Magnolia Ave.
St. Augustine, Florida 32084
Old Jail Museum167 San Marco Ave.
St. Augustine, Florida 32084
Ripley's Believe It or Not! Museum19 San Marco Ave.
St. Augustine, Florida 32084
Old Town Trolley Tours St. Augustine167 San Marco Ave.
St. Augustine, Florida 32084
Oldest Wooden School House14 St. George St.
St. Augustine, Florida 32084
Smoked. Southern BBQ11 Magnolia Ave.
St. Augustine, Florida 32084
Raintree Restaurant102 San Marco Ave.
St. Augustine, Florida 32084
Juniper Market48 San Marco Ave
St. Augustine, Florida 32084
Surfside Kitchen85 Ava Way, #105
St. Augustine, Florida 32084
